Are you protected?

There are lots of long medical words in this booklet.

We have kept them in this booklet.

Sometimes we show you how to say the word in blue boxes.

We also explain what the words mean.

The name of the vaccine which protects you against Pneumonia – Meningitis – Sepsis is the pneumococcal vaccine.

You say it like: new – mo – coc – all

We shall say Vaccine in this easy-read booklet.

You can get a free Vaccine if you are 65 or over.

You can also get a Vaccine if your immune system is weak.

This means you are more likely to get ill or be unwell for longer than other people.

There are other medical conditions when the vaccine is a good idea.

We have written these on pages 9 and 10.

We have written these on pages 9 and 10

How vaccines work

Find out how the vaccine works:

Vaccines teach your immune system to protect you from diseases.

It is much safer for your immune system to learn this through vaccination than by catching the diseases and treating them.

Once your immune system knows how to fight a disease, it can often give you protection for a long time.

What is it for?

Fin out who the vaccine if for:

The Vaccine helps protect against infections that cause serious illnesses.

Examples are meningitis, sepsis and pneumonia.

Meningitis is an infection in the brain and spine.

Sepsis is a serious reaction to an infection.

Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs.

The Vaccine also helps to protect against other illnesses such as sinus infections and ear infections.

Find out on the next page if you are someone who the Vaccine is for.

Who is it for?

The Vaccine is for:

People with neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease

People who are 65 or over

People who have a long-term medical condition.

Here is a list of the long-term conditions.

Sickle cell disease

Spleen problems or you have had your spleen removed

A long-term problem with your breathing.

For example, COPD or Cystic Fibrosis.

Kidney disease

Diabetes

A heart condition

A liver condition

A weak immune system

Cochlear implant.

This is a small ear device which helps with hearing.

Please speak to someone at your GP surgery if:

you would like to find out more about the Vaccine

you would like to book a vaccine appointment

Remember when you speak to someone at your GP surgery:

You say it like: new – mo – coc – all